TENNESSEE lawmakers have voted to make the Bible the state's official book.
They have already made a .50-calibre sniper gun the official state rifle.
The state senate gave final approval on a 19-8 vote despite arguments the measure conflicts with a provision in the state constitution that "no preference shall ever be given, by law, to any religious establishment or mode of worship".
Republican Senator Steve Southerland argued his bill is aimed at recognising the Bible for its historical and cultural contributions to the state, rather than as government endorsement of religion.
Opponents argued the Bible would be trivialised by being placed alongside other state symbols like the official tree, rock or amphibian.
The measure heads to Republican governor Bill Haslam, who has not said whether he will issue a veto.
